Parapet walls are low, or dwarf, walls that are built along the edge a roof, terrace, walkway, balcony, etc. parapet wall construction can also be made from steel, aluminum, and reinforced cement concrete. Below are details about the different types of parapet walls as well as their uses.

Different types of parapet walls

Classification based on Appearance

Based on their appearance, parapet walls can be divided into the following types:

1. Plain Parapet Walls

The parapet wall plain is a vertical extension to the wall at roof’s edge. This parapet is not a specific type, but is designed to provide safety concerns.

Concrete coping is installed at the top and corbels below.

Parapets made of plain material are simple to build and require little maintenance.

The appearance of plain parapet is usually dull.

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2. Perforated Parapet Walls

Perforated parapet walls are also extensions of the wall, but they have different opening sizes to suit the aesthetics of the structure.

There are many different perforations, including circles, trefoils and flower shapes. These are all available.

3. Paneled Parapet Walls

Paneled parapet walls look similar to regular parapet walls, but they are decorated with a series of panel designs outside the parapet wall.

These panels can be either square or oblong, but there are no perforations.

Parapets of this type are more popular because they provide a stunning appearance and easy construction.

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Parapet Walls in Peril

In the past, the Embattled Parapet was widely used for castles and forts.

The parapet can be provided with alternative low and high portions as well as perforations. These perforations were used in ancient times by archers to shoot arrows through the parapet while protecting the castle.

Embarked parapets are a beautiful addition to the architectural beauty of these structures.

Classification based on shape and configuration

The shape and configuration of parapet walls can also be classified:

1. Sloped Parapet Wall

For sloped roof structures like industrial structures or trussed structures, sloped parapet walls can be used.

2. Flat Parapet Wall

For flat roof structures, flat parapet walls are best.

3. Stepped Parapet Wall

For inclined roofs, stepped parapet walls can also be used. As shown in the figure, the wall is built in a staircase-type style.

4. Curved Parapet Wall

For flat roofs as well as inclined rooftops, curved parapet walls (also called arched parapet wall) are highly recommended.

Miscellaneous Parapet types

Many modern parapet walls are replacing those mentioned above because they have a dominance in every category, including safety, economy, and appearance.

Modern parapets include parapet with steel railings and fiber-glass parapets.

For a better appearance, you can add glass or steel railings to the perforated portions of perforated parapet walls. These parapet walls are known as composite parapet walls.

Parapet Walls: What are the uses?

There are many uses for parapet walls. They can be used for:

• To give the structure an artistic look.
• To ensure safety of people when they are on top of the roof and to stop vehicles from falling off bridges.
• To conceal and prevent machinery and equipment from being placed on the roof.
• To prevent dust from entering the roof through the air.
• To stop debris from falling onto the roof.
• To stop high winds from reaching the roof.
• For military defense measures, perforated parapets are useful.

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